National minimum wage

The national minimum wage is the minimum amount of pay an employer can pay a wage earner.

The hourly rate of the minimum wage is determined by your age and whether you are an apprentice.

The hourly rate of the minimum wage is determined by your age and whether you are an apprentice.

Check our employment self-help guide for links to up-to-date amounts.

The National Living Wage is higher than the National Minimum Wage - workers get it if they’re 21 and over.

The current rate (April 2025) is £10 for those aged 18 to 20 and £12.21 for those aged 21 and over. These rates change on 1 April every year.

Deductions cannot usually be made from earnings to reduce your minimum pay unless they are for tax, national insurance, repayment of a loan or advance of wages, for example. There are other exceptions. If you are unsure whether the deductions are correct, first check with your employer. Seek further advice from us if you think the deductions are incorrect.

If you are paid less than the national minimum wage, you can make a complaint to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). You can also seek further advice from us.

Please also see our employment guide for more information.